Min Sok
This unassuming Korean eatery, tucked away in the back alleys of the dingy P. Burgos area in Makati, surprises with high-quality ingredients and authentic Korean dishes. The bold taste profiles ranging from sour to salty and bitter to spicy stand out among the flattened tastes we are used to from the average Korean restaurant in Manila.
Min Sok’s uncompromising Dakdori Tang, a spicy chicken stew
Entering Min Sok feels more like stumbling into an uninspired living room than a restaurant. The huge gas tanks underneath each table instantly catch the eye. At Min Sok ambiance or decor are unheard of. Similar to many hidden BBQ gems in Seoul’s outer districts the owners let the food take the center stage.
For someone who enjoys Korean BBQ for its creatively marinated beef and pork might be disappointed at first sight. Min Sok exclusively serves dry-seasoned meats. We started off with an order of BBQ beef ribs accompanied by the usual set of complimentary Banchan, Korean side dishes including Kimchi, Fishcake and vegetables among others. We were immediately impressed with the high quality of the meat and the understated seasoning started to make sense.
We continued with an order of spicy Octopus which is perfectly cooked and each bite delivers a healthy punch of flavor and spice in your face. Uncompromising, just how good Korean food should be!
For the final order we stuck to one of our old time favorites, Dakdori Tang, a spicy chicken stew. We asked for a half order, which was more than enough for two. The spiciness of the broth was well adjusted and accentuated the taste of the chicken nicely. Though all in all well executed, the lack of carrots which usually helps to balance the starchy potatoes was disappointing.
If you are looking for an authentic Korean restaurant experience without flying all the way to Seoul look no further. The high-quality ingredients and large portions do come with a price price tag though.
Pro Tip: Ask for sesame leaves which can be added to your lettuce wraps to give good a kick of bitter freshness.
Details
Min Sok
5655 Don Pedro Street, Poblacion, Makati City
Phone: +63 2 895 9586
Opening Times: Mon-Sun 10:30am - 10:30pm
Price Category: $$$